I’m an international TV personality, actor and model. My career launched globally as the official host of “The X Factor” airing in more than 25 countries.

Can you tell us a bit about any upcoming projects or events that you are working on?

I’m working on a couple of TV projects. I was recently casted in the series “Al Ikhwa; The Brothers” and “Leabet El Mot; The game of death”. I’m also working with my acting coach from LA, Gerald James.

Do you find the pressures of working in your industry significant with regard to feeling the need to have a “perfect” body? If so, how do you navigate through that terrain? How do you “not” judge yourself when others (critics, audience members, producers, etc.) “judge” you based on outward measures?

Well, this is my philosophy: I know that I’m not always going to be young, so I have to keep myself inwardly healthy for my own life, not just for the cameras. I focus on keeping myself healthy mentally, emotionally and physically so I can live a long time. If others want to judge me, whatever. That’s their problem.

To follow up with that question, how do you deal with bullying or people talking negative about you? Can you give any examples of bullying in your personal life and how you handled it?

You know, when I was growing up I just fought the bullies at school. Now that I am a public figure, anyone can say what they want about me. I really have no control over it. What is most troubling is that the internet is like the Wild West. People can hide and spew negativity anonymously. We need sheriffs for the Internet. Until then, I ignore it all.

What made you want to get involved with Mental Fitness, Inc. and what it is about the mission of Mental Fitness that speaks to you?

The opportunity to help children have a positive body image and like themselves. There is no more important mission. All children should believe that if your body works- it is perfect. Like yourself, and be kind to yourself. There is no one else like you- you are special. Nothing else matters.

Who were the role models in your life?

I have a couple. Definitely actors Will Smith, Al Pacino, Robert De Niro and Antonio Banderas. As far as public figures, my role models would be Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King and former Egyptian president Anwar El Sadat.

What do you define as beautiful?

That’s simple. Mothers are the beauty of everything.

How do you define inner beauty?

Well that’s the most important kind of beauty, isn’t it? For me, inner beauty comes from respecting others, appreciating others, and being kind. That inner beauty will just shine from within.

How do you manage your stress levels in daily life? Do you use music / art / dance, etc. as a coping tool? Are there other things that you do to live mindfully?

I exercise, listen to music and watch movies. It takes me away and helps me to relax. I surround myself with family and positive friends because I can just be myself. With them, I am not a TV star, or famous, I am just a regular guy, and that keeps me grounded.

What is happiness?

Happiness is accepting yourself. I am happy challenging myself in my career, and motivating my colleagues. My mantra is “Always put a smile on people’s faces.” When you are mindful of that, you speak kindly to others and treat them with respect.

Would you be willing to take the Real Deal pledge? Thoughts about that? (http://wearetherealdeal.com/about/the-real-deal-pledge/)

Absolutely, unconditionally, yes! I cannot think of a more important thing to say than “I am unapologetically myself”.

How do you find a work-life balance — as a man, relationships, a professional — what are keys to balance?Other thoughts / reflections?

I think that is a daily struggle for everyone. Some days are all work, some are all fun. The important thing is to balance your life over the long term. Make sure you spend time with people who ground you and are honest with you. Those are the people who will you help you to have a real life, as opposed to one that is filled with false pride.

As the host of the Middle East’s highest-rated television show; X Factor Arabia, Bassel Alzaro is a welcomed guest in millions of homes. But he is no stranger to the spotlight. In 2006, he travelled to London, England, where he lived for a year. Before landing the coveted role as host of the wildly popular X Factor Arabia, Alzaro was a brand executive for a multinational company in Egypt.